Long term study of haematological and biochemical parameters in pigs with different embryo origins

Abstract

Rising livestock demand has increased use of assisted reproductive technologies (ART). Evidence indicates long-term effects of ART on molecular physiology and metabolism. This longitudinal study represents the first comprehensive analysis of haematological and biochemical parameters in pigs derived from assisted reproductive technologies over a 5-year period, thus filling a gap in the literature. We evaluated crossbred pigs (Landrace × Large White) produced through artificial insemination (AI), and after transfer of in vitro produced embryo (IVP) with standard protocol (C-IVP), and with reproductive fluids (RF-IVP). Blood samples were collected at 6-month intervals from 1 to 5 years of age, with comprehensive analysis of 51 parameters covering erythrocyte, leukocyte, platelet, reticulocyte, and biochemical indices, using haematology and automatic chemistry analysers. Age significantly influenced all parameters (P?<?0.05), with all indices remaining within physiological ranges. Distinct developmental trajectories emerged, characterized by significant reversals of early-life patterns. Adult AI animals exhibited higher RDW, GGT, and neutrophil counts compared to IVP groups. Conversely, IVP animals maintained higher haemoglobin levels, with the RF-IVP group showed the highest albumin and lowest GGT concentrations, indicating subtle differences in metabolic-related biomarkers. A notable reversal was observed in reticulocyte haemoglobin content (CHr), where C-IVP adults consistently exceeded AI levels despite being lower in the piglet stage. Sex-related differences and age-sex interactions were observed across multiple parameters, further modulating these ART-induced trajectories throughout adulthood. ART-derived pigs demonstrate safe long-term haematological and biochemical profiles with age-related developmental patterns. Reproductive fluid supplementation during IVP minimize haematological and biochemical differences between pigs conceived by assisted reproduction methods, offering a promising approach for improving ART protocols. This study establishes age-related haematological and biochemical profiles for pigs derived from assisted reproductive technologies and supports their long-term physiological stability.